BOONE – Appalachian State University will host the 14th Annual Polar Plunge Feb. 16 at the campus duck pond to support the Special Olympics athletes of Watauga County. The event will begin at 4 p.m. immediately following registration at 3 p.m.

The 14th Annual Polar Plunge is set to take place Feb. 16. In the event’s 13-year history, it has raised more than $93,000 in support of the Special Olympics athletes of Watauga County. (Photo by Marie Freeman)

To those interested in participating, a minimum age of 16 is required. To participate in the plunge individually, there is a $25 entry fee. For groups of five or more, the fee is $20 per jumper.

Prizes will be awarded to the most extreme costume for male and female jumper, top fundraising group and fundraising individual. All those who participate will receive a Polar Plunge beach towel.

Last year, 200 participants joined in the Polar Plunge raising $8,000 for the Watauga County athletes. With last year’s total included, the total amount raised in this event’s 13-year history is more than $93,000.

The event is sponsored by the Appalachian State University Police Department, Boone Police Department, Blowing Rock Police Department, Appalachian Regional Health Care System Police Department, Watauga County Sheriff’s Office and Watauga County Parks and Recreation Department. Donations to the Special Olympics Watauga County chapter are tax deductible and checks are to be made out to Special Olympics Watauga County.

For information on how to register for the event or how to make a donation, contact Keron Poteat, Watauga County Special Olympics coordinator, at 828-264-9511 or keron.poteat@watgov.org.